The Duskbloods Has You Playing as Bloodsworn, But No, It's Not Bloodborne 2

The Duskbloods will immerse players in the role of a Bloodsworn, but rest assured, it's not Bloodborne 2. Dive deeper to uncover FromSoftware's vision for The Duskbloods and explore the game's innovative features.

FromSoftware Will Continue To Create Single-Player Focused Games

The Duskbloods Director on Nintendo's Creator's Voice Blog

FromSoftware, renowned for Elden Ring, has reassured fans that they will continue to develop their signature single-player experiences, despite their foray into multiplayer gaming. The studio recently unveiled their upcoming title, The Duskbloods, an exclusive for the Nintendo Switch 2, during the April 2 Nintendo Direct. This online multiplayer PvPvE game retains the beloved Soulslike themes and aesthetics. Surprisingly, this follows the announcement of another multiplayer project, Elden Ring Nightreign.

In the newly launched Creator's Voice blog by Nintendo, posted on April 4, FromSoftware Director Hidetaka Miyazaki shared insights into their upcoming projects. He emphasized that despite the focus on multiplayer titles, FromSoftware remains committed to their traditional single-player games.

Miyazaki stated, "While our upcoming game is centered around online multiplayer, this does not signify a shift towards a more multiplayer-focused future for our company." He further added, "We are also excited about the Nintendo Switch 2 version of Elden Ring, and we continue to prioritize the development of single-player games that embrace our classic style."

The Importance of Blood in The Duskbloods

Miyazaki shed light on the game's core concept of blood, where players control characters known as "Bloodsworn." These individuals possess superhuman abilities derived from special blood, drawing parallels to vampires, though Miyazaki clarified that they would not be portrayed as traditional monstrous figures.

In The Duskbloods, Bloodsworn vie for "The First Blood," a prize that emerges during "The Twilight of Humanity," an event that spans various times and locations.

Regarding the game's setting, Miyazaki described, "The game features a mix of traditional Gothic and Victorian-style maps, alongside settings from the early modern period, such as the one seen in the trailer with the train."

Miyazaki emphasized that blood serves as a thematic cornerstone in the game, representing history, power, fate, and the transcendence of human limitations.

Wide Variety of Characters and Online Multiplayer

The Duskbloods' trailer showcased a diverse range of characters, each with unique designs and personalities. Miyazaki confirmed that players can choose from over a dozen characters, with options for customization. He expressed, "The character designs and their weapons offer unique elements, and I hope players will find their favorites among them."

Players start at a hub where they select and customize their character before entering online multiplayer sessions that support up to 8 players. Post-match, players return to the hub to claim rewards, primarily character customization items.

Matches typically end with one player remaining, though alternative victory conditions exist, such as defeating a formidable boss or engaging in special scenarios.

Miyazaki elaborated, "Whether it's PvP or PvE, our goal is to provide an experience where players can learn and improve their skills. PvE boss encounters are designed to be challenging yet rewarding upon victory."

He also introduced the concept of "roles" in the game, which assign special responsibilities and objectives to players. Examples include the "Destined Rivals" role, where players must locate and defeat their rival, and the "Destined Companion" role, where players seek a partner to form a bond and earn unique rewards.

Miyazaki explained, "Roles can be assigned through blood customization, enhancing the role-playing aspect and adding drama to the gameplay."

The Creator's Voice blog has provided valuable insights into FromSoftware's plans for The Duskbloods, a Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive slated for release in 2026. Stay tuned for more announcements as the game's development progresses. For the latest updates on The Duskbloods, be sure to check out our dedicated article.